Welcoming People With Developmental Disabilities and Their Families: A Practical Guide for Congregations

Faith matters in the lives of many young people with developmental disabilities and their families. Yet far too many children and adults with labels like Down syndrome, autism, or intellectual disability struggle to find a congregation that will welcome and weave them into the life of their faith community. What a missed opportunity! Young people with disabilities miss out on the chance to be part of a community where they can worship, learn, fellowship, and serve with others. And congregations miss out on the chance to receive the wonderful gifts, friendship, and faith of a vital part of their community. Faith communities are incomplete without the presence and participation of people with disabilities and their families.